Mine Fire Prevention
Mine fires are highly hazardous events that can cause deaths, severe injury, destruction of property and also loss of resources. The prevention and control of accidental fires at mines have become increasingly important as the world’s natural resources and hours of working underground become ever more stretched.
Fortunately, new technologies have been developed to better detect, monitor and eventually control fires that occur at mines. One of the most significant advances has been the introduction of mine fire detectors and monitors. These instruments can detect fires quickly and provide early warning of potential problems. Such detectors and monitors can be used to detect a variety of conditions which might be an indication of a possible fire and can be set to respond to changes in temperature, smoke, flame, or direct visual observations.
Once a fire is identified, it must be immediately suppressed to avoid escalation and possibly damage. Mine fire suppression methods vary considerably, with the most common being water, dry chemical, and foam systems. For example, water jet systems can be used to direct large, powerful streams of water onto the fire source, cooling the area and effectively extinguishing the flames. Foam systems work in a similar manner, but the foam covers and smothers the fire instead of simply cooling it. Dry chemical systems use pressurized tanks of extinguishing chemicals to suppress the fire.
In order to ensure that a fire is completely extinguished, a method known as “afterfire ventilation” is sometimes used. This method involves careful control of air flow to move the heat out of the fire zone in order to slow and eventually stop the spread of the fire. This process is typically achieved by selectively opening or closing doors and ventilation systems within the mine and piping fresh air towards the fire area. After the fire is contained, mine personnel can then inspect the area and observe the effects of the fire in order to properly prepare the area for any needed repair and clean up.
Finally, mine fires can be prevented in the first place with the proper education, planning, and preparation. Maintaining awareness of any fire hazards, providing regular maintenance to machinery, ensuring that combustible material is kept away from heat sources, and making sure that all electrical wiring is in good condition are all important steps in preventing potential problems. Additionally, mines should have contingency plans in place in case of an emergency, such as an evacuation plan and communication protocol between mine personnel, emergency responders, and other necessary personnel.
Ultimately, mine fire prevention and suppression rely on a combination of effective technology and personnel training. By properly developing and utilizing these methods, the incidence of mine fires can be significantly reduced and the safety improved for those in and around the mine.
